A-kinase anchoring protein 1 (AKAP1)

A-kinase anchoring protein 1 (AKAP1) is a mitochondrial scaffold protein that anchors protein kinase A (PKA) and other signaling proteins to the outer mitochondrial membrane, orchestrating localized signal transduction events[2][4]. It plays a critical role in regulating mitochondrial dynamics by inhibiting fission and promoting fusion, thereby maintaining mitochondrial integrity and function[1][4]. AKAP1 modulates oxidative phosphorylation and ATP production, buffers mitochondrial calcium, reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS), and prevents apoptosis in stressed cells, conferring cardioprotective and neuroprotective effects[1][2][4]. AKAP1 is implicated in the regulation of pathological cardiac hypertrophy, heart failure, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer, acting largely by controlling mitochondrial homeostasis and cell survival signaling. Loss or downregulation of AKAP1 leads to enhanced mitochondrial fragmentation, oxidative stress, and cell death, particularly in cardiomyocytes and neurons[1][2][4]. There are currently no approved drugs specifically targeting AKAP1, but its central role in disease pathways makes it a potential therapeutic target[2].

Other names

D-AKAP1AKAP121AKAP149